The Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday swore in Mrs Adenike Oshinowo as the first female Clerk of the assembly, marking a significant milestone in the history of the legislature.

The swearing-in ceremony, which also served as a valedictory session for the outgoing Clerk of the House, Mr Olalekan Onafeko, attracted lawmakers, state government officials and family members of both Onafeko and Oshinowo.

Speaking at the event, the Speaker of the House, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, congratulated Oshinowo on her appointment and wished her a successful tenure as Clerk of the House.

Paying tribute to Onafeko, Obasa said that the outgoing clerk served the assembly diligently.

According to him, Onafeko’s long years in service deserve recognition and celebration.

“He (Onafeko) has served from 2002 till now. Even if he had done nothing, the years spent in service are enough. He must not be denied the funfair and celebration.

“I wish him success, long life and peace of mind as he steps out as former clerk,” Obasa said.

Other lawmakers took turns to pay tribute to Onafeko for his dedication, professionalism and contributions to the Assembly.

Speaking, Mr Aro Moshood (Ikorodu 2) described Onafeko as a remarkable public servant who served with diligence from the day he was sworn in.

Similarly, Nureni Akinsanya (Mushin 1) celebrated Onafeko as a distinguished legislative administrator, saying his commitment to parliamentary excellence had the Assembly positively.

“Your dedication, professionalism and commitment to parliamentary excellence have been exemplary, leaving an indelible mark in the Assembly.

“As you chart a new course in life, I wish you continued success, good health and greater achievements in all your future endeavours,” Akinsanya said.

In his commendation, Abiodun Tobun (Epe I) congratulated the outgoing clerk, describing him as a disciplined administrator who maintained the confidentiality expected of his office.

“The sixth clerk of the House is bowing out and I congratulate you. You refused to divulge information as clerk even when we were pressured,” Tobun said.

Mr Desmond Elliot (Surulere 1) also congratulated both the speaker and the outgoing clerk, describing Onafeko as a loyal and dependable officer of the Assembly.

Other lawmakers equally commended Onafeko’s service and wished him success in his future endeavours.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Onafeko began his career at the Lagos State House of Assembly following his deployment to the legislative House in 2000,

He served as Principal Administrative and Human Resources Officer and occupied several strategic positions before attaining the office of Clerk of the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2020.

Meanwhile, Oshinowo is a legal practitioner and public administrator with over two decades of meritorious service in the Lagos State Public Service. (NAN)

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